What does demisting mean?
Demisting is the process of removing mist, fog, or condensation from a transparent surface, most often the windscreen of a car. It is also used as a verb for carrying out that process. A windscreen can become covered with condensation because warm, moist indoor air meets cold glass; heating, ventilation, or airflow may then clear it. Demister or demisting system commonly refers to the device or mechanism that does this work. The word is particularly associated with British English, while defogging is generally more common in North America. Although demisting is usually practical and technical rather than poetic, it can also describe clearing condensation from household windows, mirrors, camera lenses, and other glass or plastic surfaces. Its usefulness lies in naming a familiar problem and the equally familiar process of restoring visibility.
To remove mist, fog, or condensation from a surface, especially by heating, ventilating, or wiping it.
"The driver waited for the heated windscreen to finish demisting the glass."
Especially associated with windscreens and other vehicle surfaces; defogging is more common in North American English.
The process of removing mist, fog, or condensation from a surface.
"Quick demisting made the road visible again."
The noun form is less common than the attributive use in phrases such as windscreen demisting.
A clear view through the windscreen may depend on a small heater, a vent, and a word that names both the process and the promise of a better day.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of demisting
Demisting was formed in English by combining the prefix de-, meaning removal or reversal, with mist. The compound developed alongside modern systems for clearing vehicle windows in poor weather. Its root is the English word mist, which also appears in related forms such as misty and mistiness. Demist remains the corresponding base verb, while demisting is its present participle and gerund form.
Related word forms
How demisting is actually used
The word is especially common in British English in automotive contexts, where windscreen demister is also widely used. North American usage more often favors defogging, although demisting is understood and used.
Easily confused with demisting
Demisting means removing condensation, whereas misting generally means covering something with or in fine droplets.